Francisco Riojas

Visitation will be held Monday, March 23 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Laurel Land Funeral Home, with a Rosary beginning at 6:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, March 24 at 11:00 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church. Interment will follow at the Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery with military honors, a final tribute to his proud service in the United States Army.

Francisco proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War as a tank commander, rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class. His service was one of the proudest parts of his life and earned him the nickname “Sarge,” a name he was known by among family and friends for many years.

While stationed in Germany, Francisco met the love of his life, Martha. The two married and returned to the United States, where they built a life together and raised five children. Martha preceded him in death at the age of 56.

After completing his military service, Francisco worked for the National Guard Armory, where he later retired.

Francisco was known for being incredibly handy and resourceful. If something was broken, he could fix it—or find a way to make something new out of it. His home was filled with creative solutions and projects he had built or repaired himself. He also enjoyed building model cars and even kept a sewing machine to mend clothing. He especially enjoyed spending time with family and sharing a margarita together.

Francisco was preceded in death by his wives, Martha and Susie, and his great-grandchildren, Ryleigh and Gregory.

He is survived by his children: Frank Riojas and wife Rachel, Roy Riojas and wife Yolanda, Francisco Riojas II and wife Dottie, Maryann Martinez, and Peggy Castro and husband Albert.

He was also a proud grandfather to 16 grandchildren: Sarah Riojas, Rachel Mansheim (Gary), Becky Reynolds (Sean), Ryan Riojas (Courtney), Melinda Bermejo (Andy), Crystal Woods (Chris), Jessica Battle, Francisco Riojas III (Stephanie), Sonia Capps (Joseph), Greg Soriano (Elizabeth), Lawrence Martinez, Marcos Martinez (Stephanie), Jose Martinez, Sandra Martinez, Alice Martinez, and Selena Castro.

His legacy continues through 42 great-grandchildren: Alyssa, Christian, Noah, Ian, Bianca, Pierce, Bridgett, Halle, Dax, Isabel, Channing, Trenton, Madelyn, Barrett, Berkeley, George,

Dominic, Nick, Emilia, Miliana, Anthony, Sophia, Carolina, Marcel, Monique, Amber, Jacqueline, Cassie, Hudson, Charlie, Andrew, Julian, Mia, Daniella, Francisco Jr, Carlos,

Crystal, Justine, Jocelyn, Jacob, Maddie (Honorary), and Autumn (Honorary).

His legacy also continues through his great-great-grandchildren: Jordan, Aliya, and James.

He held a special place in his heart for his young neighbor, Ashton Fulton, who often spent time sitting with him and became like an honorary great-grandchild.

Francisco will be remembered for his strength, quiet wisdom, love for his family, and faithful service to his country. May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with those who went before him.

Pallbearers will be Marcel Battle, George Garcia, Dominic Garcia, Nicholas Hunter, Anthony Riojas, Dax Riojas, Pierce Mansheim, and Christian Soriano.